(NEWPORT, WA) -- Public Utility District No. 1 of Pend Oreille
County (PUD) has installed several free community Wi-Fi hotspots. In
response to the COVID-19 crisis, the PUD launched this effort to help those in
the community gain internet access. With businesses, restaurants, and
public facilities closed, the options for customers to connect are currently
limited. The PUD hopes to help bring
connectivity to students and those community members that otherwise don’t have access.
The following locations currently have free Wi-Fi available
using the Wi-Fi name: “POPUD_FREE WIFI INTERNET
ACCESS”.
·
Newport at the park across from the Post Office
at 100 N. Washington
·
Ione across from the PUD Warehouse at the
corner of Central St. & Millyard Rd.
·
Metaline Falls outside the Cutter Theater
at 302 Park Street
·
Cusick at the park near City Hall at 1st
Ave & Monumental Way
“Our doors may be closed, but we are still finding creative
ways to serve our communities during this uncertain and difficult time,"
said Colin Willenbrock, the PUD’s General Manager. “We hope these free
hotspots help everyone stay connected, stay positive, and stay safe.”
If you have questions regarding the Wi-Fi hotspots, please
call PUD Customer Service at 509-447-3137.
Speeds are dependent on the number of users utilizing the service per
site, each site is dedicated and will not disrupt regular broadband customers. This service will remain in place temporarily
and will be removed when it becomes no longer necessary.
